Fluorescein angiogram (FA)
Fluorescein
angiography (fluorescein - the type of dye that is used; angiogram - a study
of the blood vessels) is an extremely valuable test that provides information
about the circulatory system and the condition of the back of the eye. FAs are
useful for evaluating many eye diseases that affect the retina.
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| Retinal photograph of a patient complaining of decreased vision. | Fluorescein angiogram indicating fluid leakage within the retina |
The
test is performed by injecting a special dye, called fluorescein, into a vein in
the arm. In just seconds, the dye
travels to the blood vessels inside the eye.
A camera equipped with special filters that highlight the dye is used to
photograph the fluorescein as it circulates though the blood vessels in the back
of the eye. If there are any circulation
problems, swelling, leaking or abnormal blood vessels, the dye and its patterns
will reveal these in the photographs. The doctor can then make a
determination as to the diagnosis, and possible treatment options for the
patient.
In many cases, these photos are taken with a digital camera system, allowing the physician to interpret the results immediately.